Get Back to the Start

How to start (a) church(ing)[sew below click here]

A. Insert part a into part b, with the tab on the left side of c protruding slightly beyond the slot next to the double bend in part a.  See diagram:
Step 2. Combine the pre-re-wired electrosonic neural transmitter and inter lock the exterior nodes to slot b on the upper left side tab c as shown in the following illustration:
Part III Pray that it doesn't fall over.  But human contraptions usually do!  Oops!

How to start (a) church(ing) (seriously):

Prayer: Ask God to bring to mind those whom God would have you get to know better, not through hiring a private investigator.  Rather, develop a relationship.  Since we want people to know God, not just know about God, we too should know each other.  God may bring several people to mind.  If so, ask God with whom to start.

Mindfulness: There is a self-definition that transcends job, station in life, or activity.  Whether you are watching your kid's play baseball, buying groceries, or walking the dog, you are an ambassador of God's realm.  As such, you always on the lookout for the people you have been praying for to intersect your path.  Plus, you are ready for others whom you did not expect to cross your path also.  As such you are ready to bestow grace, light, peace, and love from Jesus Christ.

Intention: "So what brings you to town?" an acquaintance may ask.  "I am here to start churches."  Immediately, they feel like either they are a target, or they are impressed with your honesty.  Other similar questions may be about work, hobbies, interests, etc.  the point is being open about why you are here.  It is a larger question about meaning and purpose.  It is in this context that one explains as much as the relationship will bear.  TMI can be brutal or boring to some.  Take it easy.

Concretion: Make it real.  We firmly believe that church is formed when two or more people are gathered in the name of Jesus Christ.  That can happen any where.  But it has to a) happen; b) somewhere.  We invite people to our home, but before that, we have lunch, coffee, or just visit and explain the  guiding principles.  This in the midst of conversations about gas prices, groceries, kid's teachers, and summer plans.  It emerges in relationship!  Invite your friend over to your home, or where ever the gathering place is. 

Covenant: When it becomes appropriate, invite participants to express a commitment. Someone may ask if they can bring a friend.  Others may ask if they can provide a meal, lead singing, or help with the children.  These become opportunities for others to express their level of covenanting with the group.  In time, the covenant can be articulated or written out.  But in the meantime, allow an evolving covenant to form and take shape around the leading of the group's pastor(s) and the Spirit of the group.  However, this is not to say, "anything goes."  The leadership maintains the orthodoxy, but allows for any kind of input.